A man threw a viable device launched into a house back out into a nearby field last night.

Police are probing the incident in Co Tyrone. The device was thrown into a property at Melmount Villas in Strabane.

Chief Inspector Alan Hutton said: “At approximately 8.50pm on Monday, August 7 it was reported to police that a device had been thrown through the window of a property. The device was recovered by an occupant of the house and thrown into a nearby field.

“Police attended the scene last night and the device was made safe by ATO and recovered by police for further examination.

“One home was evacuated during the alert, and we are thankful to the local community for their patience and co-operation whilst we dealt with this device, which we believe, at this stage, to be viable.

“Those who left it have clearly no regard for the people living here. This was a reckless attack on the local community, which could have caused serious harm, and I am appealing for the community’s support in identifying the perpetrators.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area to contact detectives at Strand Road Criminal Investigation Branch, by calling 101 and quoting reference 1314 07/08/17 or, if they wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”